How Do You Play Pokemon Go

People all over the world have been going crazy over Pokemon Go since its release earlier this year. If you’re one of the few people who haven’t tried it yet here is all the information you need to get started and see for yourself what all the fuss has been about.

Getting Set Up

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First things first, you need to download the Pokemon Go app, which is available on iOS and Android. Once you’ve made an account you’ll be able to design your character, choosing male or female and a few basic customisations for his or her appearance.

You’ll then get a short introduction from Professor Willow, who will brief you on the game and will guide you through your first three catches, which will be either a Charmander, Squirtle, or Bulbasaur. From then on you’re on your own, and let’s face it, probably already addicted.

Catching Pokemon

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To find a Pokemon you’ll need to open the app and walk around keeping an eye on the map (whilst remaining aware of your surroundings of course !). When one is close by your phone will buzz and it will show up on the map. Tap the Pokemon and the app will change to the camera screen, and you’ll be able to add that little critter to your new collection.

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Pokemon can be found all over the place, but if you’re wanting to get hold of an especially rare one you’re probably going to have to seek out harder to reach places.

What’s a Pokestop?

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A Pokestop is where you can pick up items such as pokeballs, potions and eggs. They are marked on the map and can usually be found at important local landmarks. While here you are also able to activate lure modules, which are marked by a group of hearts on the map and will increase the chance of a pokemon showing up in the same spot.

Levelling Up

Your character can ‘level up’ by doing pretty much any part of the game, including catching Pokemon, visiting a Pokestop or fighting at a gym. With each new level you reach you will be given new gifts, and when you reach level five you’ll be able to choose a team; red Team Valor, yellow Team Instinct, and blue Team Mystic, and as a result be able to fight with other trainers at a gym.

What are Gyms?

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Speaking of teams (or factions), if a gym is held by yours then you are able to train with other members in order to raise the prestige points of that gym, which in turn leads to more Pokemon being able to be stationed there, and higher levels of pokecoins to be earned. If however the gym is not held by just one faction, the two rivals will have to battle it out until one comes out victorious and can claim it for themselves.